124 killed in Jeju Air Boeing 737 crash in South Korea; major rescue operations underway

At least 124 people have been killed in a plane crash in South Korea involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800.

The flight had taken off from Bangkok with 175 passengers and six crew members aboard when it crashed at Muan International Airport shortly after 9 a.m. local time.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with two passengers rescued. South Korea’s acting president has declared the area a special disaster zone to facilitate support for those affected.

Explosion 10 seconds into the video. A Jeju Air jetliner crashed while landing at the Muan airport, 175 passengers and 6 crew aboard. Casualties unclear. Rescues underway.

Landing gear malfunction likely cause, local fire department says. pic.twitter.com/fd3bSbVDeI

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Reports indicate that the plane skidded off the runway and collided with a barrier, catching fire upon impact.

The aircraft was noted for its safety record, but investigators are exploring the crash’s causes, including whether the landing gear and flaps were deployed.

Rescue operations

A former accident investigator expressed confusion over the incident, noting that procedures exist for significant failures.

Authorities have deployed emergency personnel and helicopters to aid in rescue operations.

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— Boeing Airplanes (@BoeingAirplanes) December 29, 2024

The plane’s body is severely damaged, complicating victim identification. Around 80 bodies are awaiting identification at a temporary morgue.

Two flight attendants were rescued, with one sustaining serious injuries.

Jeju Air, a low-cost carrier established in 2005, has experienced stock declines amid industry competition and economic difficulties.

Boeing is in contact with Jeju Air and has extended condolences to the victims’ families. Investigations into the crash continue with no definitive cause established yet.